Ratha saptami

Ratha saptami  is a Hindu festival that is celebrated to honor the Sun God, Surya. It is observed on the Saptami (seventh day) of the Magha month according to the Hindu calendar, which typically falls in January or February in the Gregorian calendar. The festival symbolizes the Sun God's journey in his chariot (ratha) across the sky, and it marks the birth of Surya. It is also considered as the day when the Sun God turns his chariot (drawn by seven horses) towards the northern hemisphere, signaling the change from winter to spring.

This day is significant for several reasons:

Worship of Surya :

Devotees offer prayers to Surya to express gratitude for the life-giving energy and light provided by the sun. It is believed that worshipping Surya on this day brings health, wealth, and success.

Ritual and practices :

 The day starts with a ritual bath at dawn, preferably in a river or a tank, as it is believed that such a bath cleanses sins and ailments. People also create Rangolis (decorative patterns) on the ground, perform Surya Namaskar (sun salutation), and offer Arghya (water) to the Sun God.

Symbolic meaning:

The chariot of the Sun God, drawn by seven horses, represents the seven days of the week or the seven colors of the rainbow. The significance of Ratha Saptami extends to the spiritual realm, symbolizing the eternal journey of life and the importance of the sun in this journey.Ratha Saptami is celebrated with fervor in many parts of India, especially in